Are backpacks hurting your kids' backs?
Kid looking in their backpack

Kids use backpacks to carry everything they need during the day and make a fashion statement. Unfortunately, the excess weight of supplies stuffed into an improperly worn backpack may lead to sore joints and muscles. Children should not carry more than 15% of their body weight in a backpack.

COVID-19 updates & resources

Little girl blowing her nose
Cold, flu or allergies?
Are your child's symptoms from allergies, the common cold, a respiratory virus, the flu or COVID-19? Learn more about interpreting symptoms.

Answers for kids graphic
Specialty groups at the Children’s Center
Mayo Clinic Children's Center offers over 85 pediatric specialties and services to meet your child's needs.

More from Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic Guide to Raising a Healthy Child book cover
Mayo Clinic Guide to Raising a Healthy Child
A much-needed book for navigating the meaningful, challenging, and life-changing preschool and school-age years.
Mother and young daughter baking
Mental health group
Connect with others for support, and practical information about mental health.

Fork and Knife icon
 
Buckwheat pancakes
Because of the buckwheat flour, these pancakes have more fiber than pancakes made with only all-purpose flour.

 
 
 
 
 

Mayo Clinic Locations
Children's Center
Jacksonville, FL
Phoenix/Scottsdale, AZ
Rochester, MN